Neuromuscular training device and methods of use

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to a neuromuscular training device and methods of use. The device and methods are useful for enhancing the alignment of the upper torso of a user. The device preferably includes a scapular stabilization brace combined with a waist member anchored to the lower torso. The device is preferably configured specifically to provide scapular retraction and stabilization, while providing static and dynamic neuromuscular training.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of International ApplicationNo. PCT/US2011/038449, filed May 27, 2011, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 61/349,157, filed May 27, 2010, thecontents of each of which are herein expressly incorporated by referencefor all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to methods and devices designedto enhance the alignment of the upper quadrant of a user's kineticchain. More particularly, the methods and devices of the presentinvention utilize the benefits of scapular retraction and stabilizationtechnology. The result is a novel, alignment-improving device, andmethod of use, comprised of a brace for the sacral, lumbar, and lowerthoracic regions of the spine and a brace for scapular retraction andstabilization.

2. Discussion of the Background

Spine and Posture Generally

Proper alignment of the upper torso is associated with reduced incidenceof back and spinal maladies. The spine (or backbone) runs from the baseof the skull to the pelvis. Health professionals describe a healthyspine as having three natural curves. First, there should be an inwardor forward curve at the neck (known as the cervical curve). Secondly,there should be an outward or backward curve at the upper back (known asthe thoracic curve). And third, a healthy back will have an inward curveat the lumbar region of the spine (the lumbar curve). These naturalcurves give the spine an “S” shape when viewed from the side, and helpthe spine withstand great amounts of stress by providing a more evendistribution of body weight. Proper alignment helps to maintain thesenatural curves, whereas poor alignment does the opposite—which may causepain and result in stress, pulled muscles, or back injury.

There are numerous salutary effects associated with proper posture. Forexample, good posture keeps bones and joints in the proper alignment.This ensures that muscles are used properly, thereby decreasing the riskof musculoskeletal injury. Proper alignment also decreases the abnormaldeterioration of joint surfaces, which, if left untreated, often resultsin arthritis. In addition, good posture reduces stress on the vitalligaments which hold the joints of the spine together. Proper alignmentalso precludes the spine from becoming fixed in an unhealthy, unnaturalposition. Muscles, moreover, are used more efficiently when one has aproperly aligned upper torso, which allows the body to exert lessenergy. Furthermore, proper alignment reduces back strain and problemsassociated with overuse, and can prevent backaches and muscular pains.Finally, proper posture enhances one's outward appearance and has beenassociated with a heightened sense of well-being.

The spine is divided into three regions. From top (neck) to bottom,those regions consist of the cervical spine, the thoracic spine, and thelumbar spine, respectively. The neck comprises the uppermost portion ofthe spine. The seven vertebrae within this region (the cervical spine)are numbered C1 to C7 (from top to bottom). As noted above, the firstspinal curve is located at the cervical spine. It resembles a “C” as itbends slightly inward—forming the curve which is also known as alordotic curve. The 12 vertebrae (T1 to T12) below the cervical spinecomprise the thoracic spine (within the chest section), to which theribs attach. The thoracic spine provides the second spinal curve as itbends outward (like a backward “C”). This curve is termed the kyphoticcurve. Next is the Lumbar spine (e.g. the lower back), consisting offive vertebrae (L1 to L5). Some individuals also have a sixth lumbarvertebra (L6). The lumbar spine has more than one vital function.Composed of the largest vertebrae, the lumbar spine interconnects thethoracic spine and the pelvis and supports the majority of the body'sweight. Like the cervical spine, the lumbar spine also curves inward(creating a second lordotic curve) Immediately below the lumbar spine isa large bone known as the sacrum. The sacrum forms the base of the spineand the rear of the pelvis. The sacrum terminates at a small bone calledthe coccyx (or tailbone).

Role of the Scapula

Among the constellation of bones comprising the “upper extremity” of thehuman body is the shoulder girdle, which itself consists of the clavicleand scapula (or shoulder blade bone). The scapula is a large, flat,triangular bone, located at the rear of the rib cage at an upper leftborder. The scapula is capable of movement in several directions.Upwards (elevation) and downwards (depression), forwards (protraction)and backwards (retraction), in addition to circumduction (pivotingupward and outward or inward and downward over the posterior of the ribcage). Several muscles control these scapular movements, including thetrapezius, pectoralis major and minor, and the rhomboids.

The scapula is an essential part of normal shoulder function. Thescapulothoracic articulation accounts for approximately 30% of allshoulder motion, with the remaining 70% provided by the glenohumeraljoint. There are 17 muscular attachments to the scapula. These musclesbring about complex movements of the scapula, including: elevation,depression, protraction, retraction, lateral rotation, medial rotation,upward rotation, downward rotation, anterior tipping, and posteriortipping. These movements demonstrate the complex nature of neuromuscularcontrol of the scapula.

The scapula performs many roles, including glenohumeral articulation,facilitating movement along the thoracic wall, elevating the acromion(during overhead activities to clear the acromion from the movingrotator cuff) to avoid impingement and compression, and providing acritical link in the proximal to distal sequencing for shoulderfunction.

The scapula is pivotal in transferring significant forces andsubstantial energy from the legs, back, and trunk to the delivery point(the arm and hand), thereby allowing more force to be generated inactivities such as throwing (than could be done by the arm musculaturealone).

Scapular dyskinesia is the loss of normal scapular motion and mechanics.It is associated with numerous shoulder pathologies, includinginstability, labial tears, and rotator cuff disease. It is alsoassociated with non-shoulder pathologies, such as excessive thoracickyphosis, anterior chest contracture, nerve damage, and micro trauma.Although scapular dyskinesia is a known generator of shoulder pain anddysfunction, it is at best poorly understood or overlooked by mostpractitioners. Few health care providers have a functional grasp of thiscomplex problem, and resources and modalities are limited to provideadequate treatment.

Scapular Stabilization

Existing and ongoing research indicates that proper positioning anddynamic stabilization of the scapula provides effective treatment fornumerous maladies associated with the upper extremities (including theneck, shoulder, and upper trunk). At present, a rapidly expanding bodyof literature shows a correlation between abnormal scapular function(e.g. “scapular kinematics”) and a variety of shoulder pathologies. (SeeJ Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2009 February 39(2): 90-104). Specifically,research now demonstrates a link between adverse scapular kinematicchanges and shoulder impingement, rotator cuff tendinopathy, rotatorcuff tears, glenohumoral instability, adhesive capsulitis, and stiffshoulders. Patients exhibiting these adverse scapular kinematic changesfrequently suffer from reduced or altered functioning of the musclesthat control scapula movement. For example, these patients often displayreduced serratus anterior function and increased upper trapeziusactivation. In addition, scapular kinematic alterations often correlatewith disfavored physiological conditions such as shortened rest lengthof the pectoralis minor, tight posterior shoulder, thoracic kyphosis,and flexed thoracic postures. All of the above pathologies emphasize theclinical and physiological importance of proper scapular positioning andstabilization. Despite this existing body of research, the science ofscapular stabilization continues to evolve. Thus, current findingsdemonstrate the need for further investigation and for improved scapularstabilization devices that are capable of improving posture andameliorating abnormal scapular kinematics.

Lumbar-Sacral Support, LSO Braces, and the Kinetic Chain

Scapular stabilization devices provide little or no support for thelumbar-sacral and lower thoracic region of the spine (e.g. the “lowerback”). Lumbar sacral support reduces the load on the back muscles, andcan be invaluable during episodes of acute and chronic lower back pain.Currently, patients in need of lower back support frequently turn toLumbar-Sacral (“LSO”) braces or other braces designed to support and/orstabilize the sacral, lumbar and lower thoracic region of the spine.Typically, LSO braces are indicated for Failed Lower Lumbar SurgerySyndrome, chronic low back pain, multiple level decompression,radiculopathy, and spinal stenosis, among other disorders. Common lowerback braces encircle the lumbar-sacral region of the torso, and consistof anterior and posterior panels to provide rigid control of thespine/torso and enhance spinal alignment. When worn properly, LSO bracesassist the patient's development of proper posture and muscle memory,thereby reducing the incidence of lower back pain and injury andimproving spinal alignment.

Current LSO braces, however, do not address the need for scapularstabilization discussed above. Likewise, current scapular stabilizationdevices do not provide adequate lumbar-sacral support and stabilization.What is needed, therefore, is an improved orthopedic unit that combinesthe benefits of dynamic scapular stabilization with rigid control andsupport of the lumbar sacral region of the spine. The combinationproduces a synergistic—and not merely additive—effect. This appears tobe due, at least in part, to the fact that the spine, scapula, andshoulder all comprise part of a common kinetic chain. Thus, spinalalignment has been shown to influence scapular position. Likewise, bothscapular position and spinal alignment influence shoulder position. Thiskinetic chain, or dynamic interrelationship (between the spine, scapula,and shoulder), derives from at least two sources. First, there arenumerous intermuscular connections between the spine, scapula, clavicle,and humerus. These muscular connections, therefore, exert functionalcontrol over the spine, scapula, and shoulder (relative to each other).Secondly, there is a well-recognized biomechanical model demonstratingintegrated movement of the glenohumoral and scapulothoracic jointsduring scapular plane abduction (commonly termed “scapulohumeralrhythm”).

One important study further demonstrated the critical interrelationshipbetween the spine and scapula (and shoulder). In the study, researcherscorrelated slouched posture (as evidenced by an anterior tilt of thethoracic spine) with decreased scapular range of motion and increasedanterior tilt (of the scapula). (See Arch Phys med Rehabbil 1999;80:945-50). Conversely, the study demonstrated that bringing thethoracic spine posterior (indicative of proper posture) creates acorresponding posterior tilt (of the scapula), which in turn enhanceshumeral head alignment with the labrum to properly align the uppertorso. As result, the researchers were able to conclude that thoracicspine position significantly affects scapular kinematics, and thatslouched posture is associated with decreased muscle force.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a device for improving the uppertorso alignment and methods of use. In a preferred embodiment the deviceincludes a waist member and a scapular stabilization brace. The waistmember typically has an inner and an outer surface, and opposing distalends and includes a front side, a back side, and opposing lateral sides.The waist member is preferably configured such that when worn by theuser the opposing distal ends are releasably secured to one another toanchor the waist member to and encircle the lower torso of the user. Thescapular stabilization brace includes a garment configured to envelop atleast a portion of the user's torso; the garment has a front side, and aback side. The front side of the garment includes a chest portion andthe back side includes an upper back portion.

The scapular stabilization brace also preferably includes a pair oftension straps each affixed to opposing lateral sides of the upper backportion of the garment. While the garment is being worn by the user,each of the pair of tension straps diagonally extend toward opposingsides of the user's lower torso and through a pair of directional guideloops each disposed on the opposing lateral sides of the waist memberand removably attached to the front side of the waist member.

According to an additional preferred embodiment, the waist member of thedevice may comprise a lumbar-sacral (“LSO”) brace. The front side of theLSO brace includes an abdominal portion and the back side of the LSObrace comprises a sacral, lumbar and lower thoracic portion. Theopposing distal ends of the LSO brace include fasteners releasablysecured to one another in order to encircle the lower torso of the userand increase the compression applied to the user's lower torso.

According to an alternative preferred embodiment, the device includes awaist member that has a main body, an inner and an outer surface, andopposing distal ends, wherein when worn by the user, the waist membercomprises a front side, a back side, and opposing lateral sides, and theopposing distal ends are releasably secured to one another in order toanchor the waist member to and encircle the lower torso of the user. Thedevice also includes a scapular stabilization brace, wherein thescapular stabilization brace comprises a garment configured to envelopat least a portion of the user's torso, the garment having, a frontside, and a back side. The front side of the garment comprises a chestportion and the back side of the garment comprises an upper backportion, a lower back portion, an inner garment layer, and an outergarment layer that substantially covers the inner garment layer. Thescapular stabilization brace also includes a pair of tension straps eachaffixed to opposing lateral sides of the upper back portion of the innergarment layer and positioned between the inner garment layer and theupper back portion. While the garment is being worn by the user, each ofthe pair of tension straps preferably diagonally extends across the backof the user, toward opposing sides of the user's lower torso and throughstrap orientation members, disposed on the opposing lateral sides of thewaist member and removably attached to the front side of the waistmember.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, described below, illustrate preferredembodiments of the present invention. It will be understood that nolimitation to the scope of the invention is intended thereby. Thesedrawings depict various features and further advantages of the presentinvention. The invention is not limited to the particular embodimentsdisclosed in these drawings, as it should be understood by one skilledin the art that additional features, modifications, and alternativeembodiments are contemplated by the invention as disclosed herein.

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a rear elevational view of an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of an embodiment of the presentinvention, worn by a user prior to securing the waist member around thetorso;

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of an embodiment of the presentinvention, worn by a user while securing the waist member around thetorso;

FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of an embodiment of the presentinvention, worn by a user while adjusting the scapular stabilizationbrace;

FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of an embodiment of the presentinvention, illustrating the waist member secured to the torso of a user;and

FIG. 7 is a rear elevational view of a specific preferred embodiment ofthe present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1 and 2 show a front and rear elevational view of a preferredembodiment of the present invention, wherein the device is specificallyconfigured to improve the upper torso alignment of a user. In thisparticular embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the device is modular. Themodular device preferably comprises a scapular stabilization brace 90.The scapular stabilization brace 90 typically includes a garment 92configured to envelop at least a portion of the user's torso. Thegarment 92 is preferably has an inner and an outer surface, a front side94, a back side 96, and opposing lateral sides, wherein the front sidecomprises a chest portion 98 and the back side 96 comprises a backportion 100. The garment as designed herein, typically comprisesopposing shoulder portions 102.

Advantageously, the scapular stabilization brace 90 further comprises apair of tension straps 104 fixed positionally to and in contact with thefront side 94 and the back side 96 of the garment 92. While the garment92 is being worn by the user, the tension straps 104 are releasablysecured to—and extend from—alternate sides 112 of the upper front torsoof a user. Originating from its respective point of attachment onopposing sides of the upper front torso, each strap 104 extends rearwardover said opposing portions of the upper torso (adjacent to a respectiveshoulder of the user), and then proceeds diagonally toward opposingsides of the user's lower torso, such that substantially the entirelength of each tension strap 104 is in direct contact with the outersurface of the garment 92, and such that the tension straps 104 crossover each other near the middle of the user's back.

Preferably, the pair of tension straps 104 are comprised of extendablestraps which are releasably secured to each of the front 94 and back 96portions of the garment 92, so that they may be adjusted to fit thegarment 92 to a particular user and/or address any particular needs ofthe user. More preferably, the tension straps 104 include one or moresecuring members 116 mounted on each one of the extendable tensionstraps 104.

In an optional alternative embodiment, the scapular stabilization brace90 does not include the underlying garment 92. In this alternativeembodiment, the strapping system as disclosed above also improves theupper torso alignment of the user.

The preferred embodiment further includes a second brace 106, whereinthe second brace comprises an inner 140 and an outer surface 130, afront side 108, a back side 110, and opposing lateral sides 112. Thefront side 108 of the second brace comprises an abdominal portion 128and the back side comprises a sacral, lumbar and lower thoracic portion138. Preferably, the front 108 and back portions 138 are releasablysecured to each other in order to encircle the lower torso of the userand increase the compression applied to the user's lower torso.

The scapular stabilization brace 90 and second brace 106 are(optionally) releasably coupled to each other to form the modulardesign. As used herein, the term modular refers to the multi-componentaspect of a preferred embodiment of the device. In alternateembodiments, the device comprises a single component wherein the dynamicscapular stabilization brace 90 is fixed to the static second brace 106.As used herein, the term dynamic refers to an active restraint/strappingsystem; as opposed to the static support provided by the LSO brace 106.The dynamic brace 90 recruits specific muscle group activation(contraction and relaxation) and sequence these activations to properlyalign the scapula. The dynamic strapping mechanism applies specific,directional forces to the body that guides the proper positioning of thebones during movement. The dynamic brace 90 is designed to applyspecific, directional forces to the body to improve the anatomicalalignment of the pelvis, spine, scapula, and arm (and cranium). Thismechanical effect guides (not restricts) the proper positioning of thebones during movement.

The dynamic scapular stabilization brace 90 also applies compressiveforces to the body that stimulates the sensory receptors in the skin andmuscles to send impulses (messages) to the brain regarding changes inposition and the movement that the muscles have accomplished(proprioception). This sensory information is utilized to vary muscletension in response to the specific, directional forces produced by thedynamic scapular stabilization brace 90. Mechanical and sensory cues,therefore, train the shortened muscles to elongate, and elongatedmuscles to shorten resulting in the balance of muscular tension acrossthe body or a joint and enhanced anatomical alignment.

The device of the present invention is further configured to increasethe potential of a subject to produce force and to concurrently reduceclinical symptoms associated with poor anatomical alignment. As clinicalsymptoms subside, the subject becomes more dependent upon his or her ownmuscles for support and movement. When increased muscular demand iscombined with muscular balance and joint alignment, the result is anincrease in muscular strength and function in a subject.

Preferably, according to FIGS. 1-2, the releasable coupling comprises: apair of guide loops 114 symmetrically disposed on opposing lateral sidesof the second brace 106, said guide loops 114 being disposed to receivesaid extendable straps 104 of said scapular stabilization brace 90 therethrough. More preferably, said extendable straps 104 are configured toextend out of LSO strap aperture 134 through said directional guideloops 114 along opposing latitudinal planes until they converge at saidfront portion of the second brace 106. Most preferably, said frontportion 108 of said second brace 106 further comprises a securing member116 for said extendable straps 104, thereby securing each of saidextendable straps 104 to the front portion 108 of the second brace 106and releasably securing the scapular stabilization brace 90 to thesecond brace 106. Alternatively, the extendable straps 104 may bereleasably secured to the lower abdominal portion of the user.

In an alternately preferred embodiment, the present invention isdirected to a static and dynamic upper body and trunk neuromusculartraining device, the device comprising: a scapular stabilization brace90 and a lumbar-sacral orthosis (“LSO brace”) 106. Preferably, thescapular stabilization brace 90 comprises a dynamic sagittal strappingsystem 104. According to various embodiments herein, the LSO brace 106is coupled to the scapular stabilization brace 90. Preferably, thedevice is configured to externally rotate and retract a user's first andsecond scapula to create a posterior scapular tilt by bringing athoracic spine posterior (increasing the scapular carrying angle), alignand/or center the user's first and second glenohumeral articulation,stabilize the user's thoracic region of the spine to maintain thenatural curve (thoracic kyphosis) of the thoracic vertebrae and restrictthe mobility of the trunk, and stabilize the user's lumbar region of thespine to maintain the natural curve (lumbar lordosis) of the lumbarvertebrae and restrict the mobility of the trunk.

Preferably, the scapular stabilization brace 90 in the above embodimentcomprises a garment 92 configured to envelop at least a portion of theuser's upper torso, the garment 92 having an inner and an outer surface,a front side 94, a back side 96, and opposing lateral sides, wherein thefront side 94 comprises a chest portion 98 and the back side 96comprises a back portion, and the LSO brace 106 comprises an inner andan outer surface, a front side 108, a back side 138, and opposinglateral sides 112, wherein the front side 108 comprises an abdominalportion and the back side comprises a sacral, lumbar and lower thoracicportion, the front 108 and back portions 110 encircling the lower torsoof the user and increasing compression applied to the user's lowertorso. Advantageously, the garment 92 in various embodiments ispreferably further defined by opposing shoulder portions 102 extendingabout the garment 92. More preferably, in various embodiments,substantially the entire length of each tension strap 104 is in directcontact with the outer surface of the garment 92 such that the tensionstraps 104 cross over one another near the middle or upper portion 132of the user's back. Most preferably, said pair of tension straps 104comprise extendable straps which are releasably secured to each of thefront 94 and back portions 96 of said garment 92, such that they may beadjusted to fit the garment 92 to a particular user and to addressparticular needs of the user, one or more securing members being mountedon each one of the extendable tension straps 104.

In various preferred embodiment, the extendable straps 104 areoptionally (but preferably) configured to extend through saiddirectional guide loops 114 along opposing latitudinal planes until theyconverge at said front portion 108 of the LSO brace 106, wherein saidfront portion further comprises a securing member for said extendablestraps 104, thereby securing each of said extendable straps 104 to thefront portion of the second brace 90, thereby securing the first(dynamic) brace, e.g., the scapular stabilization brace, to the second(static) LSO brace 106.

More preferably, the device is configured to dynamically strengthen theuser's muscles adjacent to the scapula and thoracic spine throughpatterns of serial muscle activation, and to reduce the load on theuser's cervical region of the spine. In alternate embodiments, thedevice is configured to supply transcutaneous nerve stimulation touser-selected regions of the upper and/or lower torso. In the same orsimilar embodiments, the device(s) of the present invention areconfigured to supply heat and/or cold to user-selected regions of theupper or lower torso.

In this embodiment, the scapular stabilization brace preferablycomprises a garment 92 configured to envelop at least a portion of theuser's torso, the garment having an inner and an outer surface, a frontside 94, a back side 96, and opposing lateral sides, wherein the frontside 94 comprises a chest portion 98 and the back side comprises a backportion 100. In the same or similar embodiments, the LSO brace comprisesan inner and an outer surface, a front side 108, a back side 110, andopposing lateral sides 112, wherein the front side 108 comprises anabdominal portion and the back side 110 comprises a sacral, lumbar andlower thoracic portion, the front and back portions encircling the lowertorso of the user and increasing the compression applied to the user'slower torso. More preferably the LSO brace 106 comprises an LSO bracetightening member 136, configured to control the degree of compressionapplied by the LSO brace 106 to the user's torso. In variousembodiments, the LSO brace tightening member 136 preferably comprises alacing system. Preferably, the LSO brace 106 further comprises an LSOtightening strap 124, the LSO tightening strap 124 is configured toadjust the amount of compression controlled by the LSO brace tighteningmember 136, when pulled by a user. More preferably, the LSO tighteningstrap 124 is disposed on one of the opposing lateral sides 112 of theLSO brace 106 and removably attached to the front side 108 of LSO brace106. Most preferably, the LSO tightening strap 124 which are extendableand releasably secured to the front side of the 108 of the LSO brace106, such that the LSO tightening strap 124 may be adjusted to the needsof the user, each LSO tightening strap 124 comprising one or more LSOsecuring members 126 configured to secure the LSO tightening strap 124in place after adjustment.

More preferably, the device set forth in various preferred embodimentsis further configured to counteract pathological movement of thescapula.

In alternative embodiments, the above device is optionally configured tosupply and include transcutaneous nerve stimulation, heat, and/or coldto user-selected regions of the upper and/or lower torso.

FIGS. 3-6 show a front and elevational view of an additional preferredembodiment of the present invention. In FIGS. 3-6, a user is shownadjusting and securing a preferred embodiment of the invention. As shownin FIGS. 3-7, the device preferably comprises a waist member 206preferably comprising material having inner 130 and an outer surface140, and opposing distal ends 122. More preferably, the opposing distalends 122 preferably releasably secured to one another in order toencircle the lower torso of the user and increase the amount compressionforce applied to the user's lower torso. Preferably the waist member 206when worn by a user forms a front side 108 on the front of the user, anda back side 110 positioned on the back side of the torso of the user.When worn by the user, the waist member preferably comprises opposinglateral sides 112 positioned in close proximity to the sides of theuser's torso. Advantageously, in this embodiment, the opposing distalends 122 are releasably secured to one another, anchoring the waistmember 206 to the user by encircling the user's lower torso.

Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 3-7, the device preferably comprises awaist member 206 and a scapular stabilization brace 90. Preferably thescapular stabilization brace 90 comprises a garment 92, which envelopsat least a portion of the user's torso when it is worn by the user.Preferably, the garment 92 has a front side 94, and a back side 96. Thefront side of the garment 96 preferably comprises a chest portion 98 andthe back side 96 preferably comprises an upper back portion 132. Thescapular stabilization brace 90 more preferably comprises a pair oftension straps 104 each affixed to opposing lateral sides of the upperback portion 132 of the garment 92. More preferably, when the garment 92is being worn by the user, each of the pair of tension straps 104diagonally extends toward opposing sides of the user's lower torso andthrough a pair of directional guide loops 114, which are disposed on theopposing lateral sides 112 of the waist member 206 and removablyattached to the front side of the waist member. Most preferably, thedevice is modular, the scapular stabilization brace 90 being releasablycoupled with the waist member 206.

In one particular embodiment, the waist member 206 may include an LSObrace 206. The front side of the LSO brace 206 preferably comprises anabdominal portion 128 and the back side 110 preferably comprises asacral, lumbar and lower thoracic portion 138.

Additionally, according to various preferred embodiments, the device maypreferably be applied and worn by the user to improve the upper torsoalignment.

According to various preferred embodiments the device preferablycomprises a waist member 206 to anchor the waist member 206 to andencircle the lower torso of the user and a scapular stabilization brace90. Preferably, the waist member 206 comprises a main body 222 andopposing distal ends 122. More preferably, the opposing distal ends 122of the waist member 206 preferably comprise non-flexible material andthe main body 222 of the waist member 206 preferably is a compressionstrap. More preferably the opposing distal ends 122 of the waist member206 are releasably secured to one another. Most preferably the opposingdistal ends 122 are interconnected using a hook-and-loop fastenermaterial.

The scapular stabilization brace 90 preferably comprises a garment 92having a back side 96 made up of an upper back portion 132 and a lowerback portion 214. The garment 92 preferably comprises a stretchablematerial. More preferably, the lower back portion 214 of the garment 92is non-removably attached to the main body 222 of the waist member 206.The back side 96 of the garment 92 preferably comprises an inner garmentlayer 224 and an outer garment layer 226 on the back side 96, both ofwhich, more preferably, span the entire back side 96 of the garment 92.Most preferably, the outer garment layer 226 substantially covers theinner garment layer 224.

The scapular stabilization brace 90 preferably comprises a pair oftension straps 104. The tension straps 104 preferably comprisenon-elastic chords. Each tension strap is preferably affixed to oppositelateral sides of the upper back portion 132 of the inner garment layer224. More preferably, the portion of the tension straps 104 disposedalong the back side 96 of the garment 92 are hidden between the inner224 and outer garment layer 226 of the back side of the garment 92. Mostpreferably, while the garment is being worn by the user, each tensionstrap 104 diagonally extends toward opposing sides of the user's lowertorso and more preferably passing through strap orientation members 216preferably disposed opposite lateral sides of the waist member 206 andremovably attached to the front side 108 of the waist member. Morepreferably the tension straps 104 are configured to cross over oneanother near the middle of the user's back and extend through eyelets220 disposed on the surface of the strap orientation member 216, whichis preferably attached to the waist member 206 such that each straporientation member 216 forms a pocket with an opening 218 between thewaist member 206 and the strap orientation member 216. The tensionstraps 104 passing through the eyelet pairs 220 and extending from therespective openings 218 of the pockets along opposing latitudinalplanes.

Preferably, according to various embodiments, the pair of tension straps104 are each extendable. More preferably the tension straps 104 andreleasably secured to each of the front 94 and back sides 96 of thegarment such that the user may adjust the tension straps 104 to theneeds of the user. Most preferably each tension strap 104 preferablycomprises one or more securing members 116 configured to secure thetension strap 104 in place after the user has adjusted the scapularstabilization brace 90.

Preferably, the tension straps are configured to extend through thestrap orientation members 216 along opposing latitudinal planes. Morepreferably, the tension straps 104 are configured extend along opposinglatitudinal planes until they converge at the front side 108 of thewaist member 206. Most preferably, the front side 108 of the waistmember 206 preferably further comprises a securing mate for the tensionstrap 104 securing members 116. Each tension strap 104 securing member116 is preferably secured to the front side of the waist member 206using the securing member mate. More preferably, the tension strap 104securing members 116 and the waist member 206 securing mate togethercomprise a hook-and-loop fastener material to secure the tension strap104 securing members to the waist member 206 securing mate.

The scapular stabilization brace 90 preferably comprises strapattachment members 208 configured to slidably secure tension straps 104to opposite lateral sides of the upper back portion 132 of the innergarment layer 224. More preferably, the tension strap attachment members208 each preferably comprise a strap housing member 210. The straphousing members 210 each preferably comprise two apertures through whichthe tension straps 104 slidably move. The configuration of the strapattachment members 208, allows for greater flexibility from the deviceto respond to the movements of the user. Most preferably the strapattachment members 208 each comprise a piece of tension distributionmaterial 212 attached to the strap housing member 210, wherein a portionof each tension distribution material 212 is attached to opposinglateral sides of the upper back portion 132 of the inner garment layer224.

In an alternate preferred method of use, the present invention comprisesa method for improving the upper torso alignment of a user, applying toa user the device according to various preferred embodiments asdescribed above and adjusting the tension straps 104 to improve theupper torso alignment of the user.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinaryskill in the art will appreciate that, under certain circumstances,considering issues such as changes in technology, user requirements,etc., a variety of fastening devices may be used to “fix,” “secure”,“releasably secure”, and/or “releasably couple” (as those words are usedherein) one or more components of the present invention. These fasteningdevices may include one or more of the following: adhesives, bolts,buckles, clasps, latches, locks, screws, snaps, clamps, connectors,couplings, ties or other fastening means yet to be developed.

Likewise, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, under certaincircumstances, considering issues such as changes in technology, userrequirements, etc., a variety of fastening devices, such as adhesives,belts, bolts, buckles, clasps, latches, locks, screws, snaps, clamps,connectors, couplings, ties or other fastening means yet to be developedmay be used in lieu of—or in conjunction with—the “straps,” “tensionstraps,” and/or “extendable straps” (as those words are used herein).

The present invention also includes methods of use. One such (preferred)method of use comprises a static and dynamic upper body and trunkneuromuscular training method for improving alignment of the upperquadrant of the kinetic chain of a subject by improving spinal andshoulder alignment, scapular kinematics and proprioception, said methodcomprising the steps of:

(a) externally rotating and retracting a first and second scapula tocreate a posterior scapular tilt by bringing a thoracic spine posteriorthereby increasing the scapular carrying angle;

(b) aligning and/or centering a first and second glenohumeralarticulation;

(c) statically and/or dynamically stabilizing a thoracic region of thespine to maintain the natural curve (thoracic kyphosis) of the thoracicvertebrae and restrict the mobility of the trunk;

(d) statically stabilizing a lumbar region of the spine to maintain thenatural curve (lumbar lordosis) of the lumbar vertebrae and restrict themobility of the trunk;

(e) dynamically strengthening the muscles adjacent to the scapula andthoracic spine through patterns of serial muscle activation; and

(f) reducing the load on the cervical region of the spine.

In an alternate preferred method of use, the present invention comprisesa method for treating or reducing the risk of a shoulder injury in asubject comprising the steps of:

(a) externally rotating and retracting a first and second scapula tocreate a posterior scapular tilt by bringing a thoracic spine posteriorthereby increasing the scapular carrying angle;

(b) aligning and/or centering a first and second glenohumeralarticulation;

(c) statically and/or dynamically stabilizing a thoracic region of thespine to maintain the natural curve (thoracic kyphosis) of the thoracicvertebrae and restrict the mobility of the trunk;

(d) statically stabilizing a lumbar region of the spine to maintain thenatural curve (lumbar lordosis) of the lumbar vertebrae and restrict themobility of the trunk;

(e) dynamically strengthening the muscles adjacent to the scapula andthoracic spine through patterns of serial muscle activation; and

(f) reducing the load on the cervical region of the spine.

In an additional embodiment, the present invention further encompasses astatic and dynamic upper body and trunk neuromuscular training devicefor improving alignment of the upper quadrant of the kinetic chain byimproving spinal and shoulder alignment, scapular kinematics andproprioception, said device comprising:

(a) means for externally rotating and retracting a first and secondscapula to create a posterior scapular tilt by bringing a thoracic spineposterior (increasing the scapular carrying angle);

(b) means for aligning and/or centering a first and second glenohumeralarticulation;

(c) means for statically and/or dynamically stabilizing a thoracicregion of the spine to maintain the natural curve (thoracic kyphosis) ofthe thoracic vertebrae and restrict the mobility of the trunk;

(d) means for statically stabilizing a lumbar region of the spine tomaintain the natural curve (lumbar lordosis) of the lumbar vertebrae andrestrict the mobility of the trunk;

(e) means for dynamically strengthening the muscles adjacent to thescapula and thoracic spine through patterns of serial muscle activation;and

(f) means for reducing the load on the cervical region of the spine.

Preferably, various embodiments described hereinabove produceintracavity pressure to reduce the load on the intervertebral disk. Morepreferably, according to various embodiments described hereinabovefurther comprises elevating the acromion to avoid impingement andcompression of the rotator cuff. Most preferably, according to variousembodiments described hereinabove further comprise a means to counteractpathological movement of the scapula.

Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments ofthis invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of thisinvention includes modifications. Such scope is limited only by thebelow claims as read in connection with the above specification.Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be apparentto those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the claimsbelow.

We claim:
 1. A device for improving an upper torso alignment of a userhaving a back and torso, including the upper torso and a lower torso,the device comprising: (a) a waist member, wherein the waist membercomprises a main body, an inner and an outer surface, and opposingdistal ends, wherein when worn by the user, the waist member comprises afront side, a back side, and opposing lateral sides, and the opposingdistal ends are releasably secured to one another in order to anchor thewaist member to and encircle the lower torso of the user; and (b) ascapular stabilization brace, wherein the scapular stabilization bracecomprises a garment configured to envelop at least a portion of theuser's torso, the garment having, a front side, and a back side, whereinthe front side of the garment comprises a chest portion and the backside of the garment comprises an upper back portion, a lower backportion, an inner garment layer, and an outer garment layer thatsubstantially covers the inner garment layer, wherein the scapularstabilization brace further comprises a pair of tension straps eachhaving a first tension strap end attached to opposing lateral sides ofthe upper back portion of the inner garment layer, the pair of tensionstraps each being positioned between the inner garment layer and theouter garment layer, wherein each of the pair of tension straps extendsdiagonally across the back side of the garment, without being directlysecured to each other, towards opposite sides of the lower back portionof the garment; wherein each of the pair of tension straps extendthrough a separate tension strap orientation member pair of disposed onthe opposing lateral sides of the waist member; the tension straps eachbeing removably attachable to the front side of the waist member at asecond tension strap end.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the pair oftension straps which are extendable and releasably secured to each ofthe front and back sides of the garment, each tension strap comprisingone or more tension strap securing members configured to secure thetension strap in place after adjustment.
 3. The device of claim 2,wherein the tension straps are configured to extend through the tensionstrap orientation members along opposing latitudinal planes until thesecond tension strap ends converge at the front side of the waistmember, wherein the front side of the waist member further comprises asecuring mate for the tension strap securing members, wherein eachtension strap securing member may be secured to the front side of thewaist member using the securing mate.
 4. The device of claim 3, whereinthe tension strap securing members and the securing mate togethercomprise a hook-and-loop fastener material to secure the tension strapsecuring members to the securing mate.
 5. The device of claim 1, whereinthe scapular stabilization brace comprises strap attachment membersconfigured to slidably secure tension straps to opposing lateral sidesof the upper back portion of the inner garment layer.
 6. The device ofclaim 5, wherein the strap attachment members each comprise a straphousing member, wherein the strap housing members each comprise a firstand second aperture through which the tension straps slidably move toadjust the device.
 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the strapattachment members each comprise a piece of tension distributionmaterial attached to the strap housing member, wherein a portion of eachtension distribution material is attached to opposing lateral sides ofthe upper back portion of the inner garment layer.
 8. The device ofclaim 1, wherein each tension strap is adapted to cross over one anothernear a middle of the user's back.
 9. The device of claim 1, wherein theopposing distal ends of the waist member are releasably secured to oneanother using a hook-and-loop fastener.
 10. The device of claim 1,wherein the opposing distal ends of the waist member comprisenon-flexible material and the main body of the waist member comprises acompression strap.
 11. The device of claim 1, wherein the lower backportion of the garment is non-removably attached to the main body of thewaist member.
 12. The device claim 1, wherein the tension strapscomprise non-elastic chords.
 13. The device of claim 1, wherein thegarment of the scapular stabilization brace is made of a stretchablematerial.
 14. The device of claim 1, wherein the tension straporientation members are attached to the waist member such that eachtension strap orientation member forms a pocket on the waist member,each pocket comprising an opening and a pair of eyelets disposed on asurface of each pocket, wherein the tension straps are configured toextend through the eyelets and through the opening of the pocket alongopposing latitudinal planes.
 15. A device for improving an upper torsoalignment of a user having a back and torso, including the upper torsoand a lower torso, the device comprising: (a) a waist member, whereinthe waist member comprises a main body, an inner and an outer surface,and opposing distal ends, wherein when worn by the user, the waistmember comprises a front side, a back side, and opposing lateral sides,and the opposing distal ends are releasably secured to one another inorder to anchor the waist member to and encircle the lower torso of theuser; and (b) a scapular stabilization brace, wherein the scapularstabilization brace comprises a garment configured to envelop at least aportion of the user's torso, the garment having, a front side, and aback side, wherein the front side of the garment comprises a chestportion and the back side of the garment comprises an upper backportion, a lower back portion, an inner garment layer, and an outergarment layer that substantially covers the inner garment layer, whereinthe scapular stabilization brace further comprises a pair of tensionstraps each having a first tension strap end attached to opposinglateral sides of the upper back portion of the inner garment layer, thepair of tension straps each being positioned between the inner garmentlayer and the outer garment layer, wherein each of the pair of tensionstraps extends diagonally across the back side of the garment towardsopposite sides of the lower back portion of the garment; wherein each ofthe pair of tension straps extend through a separate tension straporientation member disposed on the opposing lateral sides of the waistmember; the tension straps each being removably attachable to the frontside of the waist member at a second tension strap end; wherein, whilethe garment is being worn by the user, the first tension strap end ofeach of the pair of tension straps is attached at a respective scapulaof the user.
 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the pair of tensionstraps which are extendable and releasably secured to each of the frontand back sides of the garment, each tension strap comprising one or moretension strap securing members configured to secure the tension strap inplace after adjustment.
 17. The device of claim 16, wherein the tensionstraps are configured to extend through the tension strap orientationmembers along opposing latitudinal planes until the second tension strapends converge at the front side of the waist member, wherein the frontside of the waist member further comprises a securing mate for thetension strap securing members, wherein each tension strap securingmember may be secured to the front side of the waist member using thesecuring mate.
 18. The device of claim 15, wherein the scapularstabilization brace comprises strap attachment members configured toslidably secure tension straps to opposing lateral sides of the upperback portion of the inner garment layer.
 19. A device for improving anupper torso alignment of a user having a back and torso, including theupper torso and a lower torso, the device comprising: (a) a waistmember, wherein the waist member comprises a main body, an inner and anouter surface, and opposing distal ends, wherein when worn by the user,the waist member comprises a front side, a back side, and opposinglateral sides, and the opposing distal ends are releasably secured toone another in order to anchor the waist member to and encircle thelower torso of the user; and (b) a scapular stabilization brace, whereinthe scapular stabilization brace comprises a garment configured toenvelop at least a portion of the user's torso, the garment having, afront side, and a back side, wherein the front side of the garmentcomprises a chest portion and the back side of the garment comprises anupper back portion, a lower back portion, an inner garment layer, and anouter garment layer that substantially covers the inner garment layer,wherein the scapular stabilization brace further comprises a pair oftension straps each having a first tension strap end affixed to opposinglateral sides of the upper back portion of the inner garment layer, thepair of tension straps each being positioned between the inner garmentlayer and the outer garment layer, wherein each of the pair of tensionstraps extends diagonally across the back side of the garment, withoutbeing directly secured to each other, towards opposite sides of thelower back portion of the garment; wherein each of the pair of tensionstraps extend through a separate tension strap orientation memberdisposed on the opposing lateral sides of the waist member; the pair oftension straps each being removably attachable to the front side of thewaist member at a second tension strap end; wherein, while the garmentis being worn by the user, the first tension strap end of each of thepair of tension straps is attached at a respective scapula of the user.20. The device of claim 19, wherein the tension strap orientationmembers are attached to the waist member such that each tension straporientation member forms a pocket on the waist member, each pocketcomprising an opening and a pair of eyelets disposed on a surface ofeach pocket, wherein the tension straps are configured to extend throughthe eyelets and through the opening of the pocket along opposinglatitudinal planes.